Safety misses start of first minicamp after receiving franchise tag

ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. – The Buffalo Bills are playing the waiting game with Jairus Byrd while hoping to sign their star safety to a long-term contract extension.

Byrd is the only member of the Bills not in attendance for the start of Buffalo's first voluntary minicamp under new coach Doug Marrone on Tuesday. His absence is not a surprise, however, after the safety was given the franchise tag on March 1.

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General manager Buddy Nix says at the team's predraft luncheon that the Bills are making an effort to sign Byrd to a multiyear deal.

The 26-year-old Byrd has been Buffalo's most consistent defender in recent seasons. He was fourth on the team in tackles in 2012 with 76, and led the team in interceptions with five. He has 18 career interceptions.